The first exercise is to focus. An essential practice is mindfulness to bring awareness to what you think and do. The outcome is noticing where we appear to separate our self from our experience of the world, from our sense of being. This awareness serves as a clue. We can learn to direct our lives on this path of knowledge. We can always practice observing ‘what we know’ combined with ‘who we are’ to strengthen and push our boundaries for how we regard matter or sensory experiences. We can take this ability to distinguish these differences to grow our potential as human beings with strength of character. We can tune-up our minds as the best vehicle to drive our knowing and being.’ ‘Awareness’ becomes the driver of our mind. The driver instructs our body and choices. To heighten this awareness, we have to first settle our bodies. Then we can settle our minds. We begin with a process of self-inquiry. Yoga is a method to apply focus and attain mastery over our body-mind system. We can apply different types of yoga (raja, jnana, karma) to tackle any question or problem that arise such as Who Am I? What is God? What is Truth? What is Real? The beauty and joy of life comes from the variety of paths to one Absolute. It helps to be in the company of others in this noble struggle.
Land Acknowledgment
As members of the Vedanta Society of Edmonton, we acknowledge that we are on traditional territories of the many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. With gratitude and respect for the land we use, we pledge to do our part to end systemic racism, commit to advancing reconciliation and partnering with Indigenous peoples in our community service. We acknowledge that we are on traditional territories in Alberta of the many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit whose footsteps have marked these lands for centuries.
Safe Spaces
Joining Meetup and Eventbrite can serve to remind anybody interested in learning about Vedanta and participate in upcoming events without having to become a member of the Society. It can also be used by members to share and promote our Vedanta group with others through our programs.
Regular Sunday meetups are open to the public and do not require registration or any fees as it runs on an informal drop-in basis from 10:30 am in the Swami Vivekananda Hall at the Hindu Cultural Centre at 14225 133 Avenue NW Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T5L 4W3. What we do is engage in a short free style meditation, screen a YouTube video from the New York Vedanta Society, followed by an informal discussion in English then enjoy a relaxed lunch donated by the temple patrons.
Retreats
Monks from Ramakrishna Mission are invited to lead group retreats to inspire and remind us of the teachings from the Vedas and other commentaries. Check Meetup.org for upcoming events and see our list of Past Events. It helps with planning if you share your experience after attending any of our programs.
Annual General Meeting
A good time to purchase or renew annual memberships is prior to the Spring AGM date to keep your membership status in good standing. Members must be over the age of 18 to receive the the full benefit of participation, receive email notifications, get elected for board duties, and have a seat on planning committees.
Four elected director positions are open for nomination every 4 years. These are volunteer positions. To be qualified to serve should be a member or demonstrate similar membership for at least two years. No previous board experience is necessary to serve as a General Director. It’s a great way for new adults and newcomers to gain local experience. Contact us for more details.